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Home
Spotlight On
Beautiful Homes
Meet The Team
Behind the Name
Our Showrooms
Visit Jim Lawrence Website
Made By Us
  • Home
  • Spotlight On
  • Beautiful Homes
  • Meet The Team
  • Behind the Name
  • Our Showrooms
  • Visit Jim Lawrence Website
  • Made By Us
Jim Lawrence Blog - Jim Lawrence Blog
Meet The Team

Meet The Jim Lawrence Quality Control Team

Ever wondered how we test the stability of our glass shades, or how hardy our chains are? Have you pondered over how we monitor the perfect paint shade and ensure the trustworthiness of our nuts and bolts? We want you to be confident that your lights, sockets, switches and poles are the best they can be. Just as our products are made by hand, they’re checked by hand too. We caught up with Senior QC Engineer Nick Rogers to find out more about how we test and try our products under the meticulous eyes of our Quality Control team.

Firstly, can you tell us who makes up the team, and how you got into this line of work?

I am the Senior QC Engineer, Mark is Head of Engineering Quality, Lorraine and Shane are our QC Technicians and Harry operates as QC Support to check the glass.

Can you explain what the QC team do at Jim Lawrence?

Well, the overall aim of our job is very simple – to reduce the number of Free of Charge (FOC) items we send out to customer to replace faulty or damaged goods and to reduce the amount of scrap that we produce. If we’re successful, our customers are happy as they have better quality products and the company is happy that we’ve saved thousands of pounds worth of scrap.

There two sides to our QC. One is more of a Quality Assurance role where we come up with strategies to make the company more efficient and cost effective by looking at all the manufacturing procedures we do here to see how they can be monitored to find problems earlier on in the making process. Usually, the earlier you catch them, the easier it is to put right and the quicker we can give everyone the ‘heads up’. This way we prevent mistakes and ensure there is consistency. With a bit of training, everyone becomes their own QC team.

The other side of the job is to test our components and products to make sure they meet the required standards. To do this we work with our suppliers, other Jim Lawrence departments and our customers to get feedback, think of workarounds and solve problems.

 

Talk us through your typical working day.

I honestly don’t think there is such a thing as a typical day, which is one of the things I love about this job. Any plans you have are usually blown out of the water by about 10.30am! In QC you spend a lot of time looking at problems and how you can resolve them. You’re always asking yourself, is there a problem with this? Why? How did it pass QC first time round? What can I do about it? How can I correct it? How can I stop it happening again?

Every morning we have a meeting with our Returns Dept to go through the FOC orders to see why things are being returned and if there is a genuine quality issue that needs looking at. This is often the issue that dictates what we do for the rest of the day. If there is a problem, we may need to remove the product from sale until it is corrected.

Some days we might find that a shipment of components has arrived that we will sample check and find that they don’t meet our standards, so we have to work with the supplier to see if they can be returned or if we can rework them in the workshop. Other days there may be an issue with a piece of machinery that has affected the quality of a product, or a staff absence which has had a random effect. There is always something to keep you on your feet.

What’s the criteria you look at when testing our products?

Everything needs to be checked to make sure it complies UK standards and our own design specifications. First, we use our own judgement to look at products to make sure the finish is right and that it is consistent. Then we use a range of clever measuring devices to sample check products to make sure they have been made to the standard spec. It is up to us to work with the technical team to make sure the specs are up to date and followed by everyone in the company so that we are all working in the same way. The design team will have considered the durability of the product when designing it, so as long as the measurements comply, it’s a good test that it has been made properly.

What happens if products don’t pass QC?

The first thing we do is put them into ‘quarantine’ so they don’t get muddled up with the rest of the stock, while investigations are under way. If it is a component that is wrong, we have to talk to the supplier to resolve the issue and see if we can correct it in-house or send it back. If it is one of our products, we have to consider how many of them are wrong, whether we should send them back to the workshop to be re-worked or whether they will have to be scrapped. We also have to ask ourselves what we can do to stop the same problem happening again. Do we need new or better equipment? More training? Better components? A new design?

When it comes to more fragile items like glass, how do you go about testing a product without deliberately trying to break it? It must be a meticulous task.

Yes, we can’t go around smashing things. We have a special device that uses a magnet to measure the thickness of the neck of the glass, which is important as that is where you unscrew the shade to change the bulb or clean it. We also use Vernier gauges, calipers and micrometres to check other parts of the glass.

A lot of our job roles are hands on here at Jim Lawrence, but it must be really fun to pick apart our products all day. What’s the best part of the role?

I love the fact it is so varied. No two days are the same. I go home every day having learnt something new, so it is constantly challenging. It’s a funny thing, but no matter how much I think I know about our products and the issues that sometime arise, there is always something new! I enjoy working with the engineering and design teams to investigate issues and working out ways we can overcome them and it’s very satisfying when you get good customer feedback having solved a problem for someone.

With all your expertise, what would you say makes our lighting and homeware high quality?

You can see our products have heart and soul, that’s what makes them different from our competitors. They look and feel better because they are handmade. They may not be perfect, but in my book, they are all the better for it. You can see our products have been made with real care and attention. There are not that many places where you can buy something that has been individually hand forged or glass blown. And everyone, not just the makers, but everyone who works here, cares about our products.

 

Can you recommend some tips for customers when it comes to taking care of their items? For example, getting the most use out of a light.

A lot of thought and attention has gone into making sure the raw materials are as robust as possible. I’d say you should treat your Jim Lawrence product like a fine wine. It will work happily for years in your room with gentle handling and a bit of care and attention – like using warm soapy water to keep it in tip top condition. If you are worried handling a light, make sure there is someone there to help you.

Finally, what’s the best part of working for a family business like Jim Lawrence?

I like the fact that everyone is very approachable, unlike more corporate businesses, and that you really get a sense of working together. Jim Lawrence is special because here you are part of a fairly small but very dedicated team of people who incredibly good at their jobs and are passionate about what they do. They are always prepared to go that extra mile to make sure our customers are happy with the products we make.

You can browse all of our hand forged products on our website and enjoy other stylish customer homes on Instagram. Don’t forget to tag us in your own imagery on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook – we love seeing our products in their new homes. 

Working with us means joining an ever-growing family of talented artisan craftsmen and business influencers. Having such a cross section of skills and talents under one roof gives us the chance to offer a fantastically broad range of new challenges throughout our staff, and our exciting career development programmes are tailored to help you grow and make the most of every opportunity within the business.

At the heart of this company we still have a ‘roll your sleeves up and get it done’ mentality that means everyone pitches in and helps no matter what the challenge – there’s no corporate boardrooms here! People tend to stay…we have an amazingly high staff retention rate (averaging 90% annually) which is testament to a genuine belief that our business is only as strong as the links that bind it.

So, if you are looking for an interesting job that challenges and stretches you, in an environment where it’s not unusual to be greeted by a friendly dog (or two) at the door then we are the company for you! We are always keen to hear from new talent, even if your perfect role isn’t currently listed above.

If you would like to apply or request further details on any of the roles, please email us your CV to recruitment@jim-lawrence.co.uk

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Welcome to the Jim Lawrence Style Journal.

We are a British interiors company creating beautiful lighting, ironwork and home furnishings from our Suffolk workshop.

This is where we share ideas that we love, show sneak peeks behind the scenes of our brand and offer a unique insight into classic design.

jimlawrencemade

Jim Lawrence Lighting & Home
Designed to bring both style and function to areas Designed to bring both style and function to areas that need task lighting, our range of articulated designs are easily adjustable with a simple tweak of their elegant arm, providing focused light right where you need it.⁠
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Our kitchen wall lights come in a range of painted colours, brass, copper tones, and cool metallic finishes to suit every style of home. To explore the full extent of our collection, tap this image of our Articulated Club Wall Light styled by @jessicamjmurray.
Introducing our new Hundon bathroom light. ⁠ ⁠ Introducing our new Hundon bathroom light. ⁠
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The hand-blown opal glass shade is made by our partners at Suffolk Glass, and rests on an antiqued brass bracket with a curved plate. Designed to enhance the glow and even distribution of light, this art deco look creates a tranquil setting, perfect for achieving an intimate and relaxing ambience in the bathroom. ⁠
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Tap the images via the link in our bio to shop the look.⁠
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Our signature antiqued brass with its rumbled pati Our signature antiqued brass with its rumbled patina is perfect for emphasising the warm glow of candlelight, a crackling fire and the soft pools of light cast by table and floor lamps, adding to a feeling of warmth and sanctuary.⁠
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We love working with this honest natural metal because it is a living finish, elevating any room, complementing building materials and pairing with all colours so that though trends may come and go, the timeless quality of brass endures.⁠
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“Autumn is a time to hunker down and embrace a sense of comfort,” says Sheena Lawrence, Co-Founder and Director at Jim Lawrence. “Creating that cosy, calming atmosphere is all about layering light using a blend of wall lights, lamps, and candlelight to soften the room as the evenings draw in.”⁠
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Tap the ‘Autumn reflections’ button via the link in our bio to shop three new seasonal looks with this sentiment at their heart 🍂⁠
Whether signalling a vacant room to the travel wea Whether signalling a vacant room to the travel weary, used to communicate between ships, or to signal railroad operations, lanterns have always been a symbol of connection: sending a message of comfort in the form of light across the night.⁠
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Perfectly placed in houses that lean into a more period style, this traditional look still triumphs today, like our Bonham lantern in this beautiful character property, a former Grocer's in Lewes, shot by @claire.waddell for @inigo.house. ⁠
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To get the look or explore our full collection of lanterns, tap this image via the link in our bio.
Our signature antiqued brass with its rumbled pati Our signature antiqued brass with its rumbled patina is perfect for emphasising the warm glow of candlelight, a crackling fire and the soft pools of light cast by table and floor lamps, adding to a feeling of warmth and sanctuary.⁠
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We love working with this honest natural metal because it is a living finish, elevating any room, complementing building materials and pairing with all colours so that though trends may come and go, the timeless quality of brass endures.⁠
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"Autumn is a time to hunker down and embrace a sense of comfort,” says Sheena Lawrence, Co-Founder and Director at Jim Lawrence. “Creating that cosy, calming atmosphere is all about layering light using a blend of wall lights, lamps, and candlelight to soften the room as the evenings draw in."⁠
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Tap the ‘Autumn reflections’ button via the link in our bio to shop three new seasonal looks with this sentiment at their heart 🍂⁠
Transform your doorways into a feature you can adm Transform your doorways into a feature you can admire up close with our vast collection of interior and exterior door furniture. Made from solid brass or forged iron, each piece is crafted by expert hands, ensuring that you can feel the quality when they are held in yours.⁠
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Tap the link in our bio to explore all of our door handles and accessories 🚪⁠
Make a wreath with us! Book a spot on our wreath m Make a wreath with us! Book a spot on our wreath making workshop on Thursday 11th December and join us at the Jim Lawrence Walcot Street showroom in Bath.⁠
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Led by florist Jade from Cottontail Flowers, you will design and decorate your own luxurious wreath to take home.⁠
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Places are £85 per person and includes:⁠
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-Delicious refreshments of mince pies and prosecco.⁠
-A curated Jim Lawrence gift bag with thoughtful take-home pieces.⁠
-£10 discount voucher to spend in the showroom on the day.⁠
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Tap the tickets button via the link in our bio to buy your ticket today 🍃
We love plug-in lights because they offer one of t We love plug-in lights because they offer one of the easiest and most effective ways to instantly add layers of light to any room. ⁠
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Whether you're creating a cosy atmosphere for a dinner party in the kitchen or brightening up a study or craft room, plug-ins are a simple, stylish solution. They're especially ideal for spaces without built-in wiring - like lofts, landings, and dim corners - or for renters and students who can’t make permanent changes but still need that extra bit of light.⁠
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Tap this image of our Clay Carrick via the link in our bio to shop plug-ins for every room of the house.
Based in Huon Valley, Tasmania, @eliskasharp is a Based in Huon Valley, Tasmania, @eliskasharp is a creative photographer capturing beautiful places, including the four walls of her own home, 'Glenlossie'. ⁠
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We were delighted to spot some of our favourite pieces styled throughout Eliska’s property, each one captured with her discerning eye and thoughtful composition. Both in our signature antiqued brass, the Hurricane Candle Sconce and the popular Carrick plug-in bring further warmth to these lovely layered spaces.⁠
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Made with English craftsmanship, but perfectly at home in interiors of all kinds around the world, our designs can be adapted for many needs. Please do get in touch with us directly with any enquiries. Discover more at jim-lawrence.co.uk.
Autumn is the season for gathering. With the eveni Autumn is the season for gathering. With the evenings drawing in, it’s a time to savour shared meals over the slow burn of candlelight and to soak up the comfort of good company.

Nowhere in the home captures the spirit of the season more than the dining table, and considered tablescaping and lighting design makes these moments even more memorable. With foraged foliage, gently rustic linens, and the warm patina of antiqued brass, you can infuse the beauty of autumn into the everyday.

Tap the ‘Autumn reflections’ button via the link in our bio to shop three new seasonal looks 🍂
Autumn is the season for gathering. With the eveni Autumn is the season for gathering. With the evenings drawing in, it’s a time to savour shared meals over the slow burn of candlelight and to soak up the comfort of good company.⁠
⁠
Nowhere in the home captures the spirit of the season more than the dining table, and considered tablescaping and lighting design makes these moments even more memorable. With foraged foliage, gently rustic linens, and the warm patina of antiqued brass, you can infuse the beauty of autumn into the everyday.⁠
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Tap the ‘Autumn reflections’ button via the link in our bio to shop three new seasonal looks 🍂⁠
Book a spot on our first wreath making workshop on Book a spot on our first wreath making workshop on Sunday 7th December and join us at the Jim Lawrence Suffolk showroom in Hadleigh. 

Led by florist Amy from The Flower Shop at Kersey Mill, you will design and decorate your own luxurious wreath to take home.

Places are £85 per person for a group of up to 12 people and includes:

-Delicious refreshments of mince pies and prosecco.
-A curated Jim Lawrence gift bag with thoughtful take-home pieces.
-£10 discount voucher to spend in the showroom on the day.

Tap the tickets button via the link in our bio to buy your ticket today 🍃
Our fireside collection is crafted in Suffolk usin Our fireside collection is crafted in Suffolk using traditional ironwork techniques: simple, elegant, and made to last.⁠
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Fire tongs offer a refined way to safely and effortlessly tend your fire, combining modern country style with practical function. The Elmsett & Portland Fire Tongs are crafted from solid steel and finished in durable matt black to match your other Jim Lawrence home accessories.⁠
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Explore our fire place accessories and companion tools by visiting jim-lawrence.co.uk
Whether it’s a favourite armchair or a quiet cor Whether it’s a favourite armchair or a quiet corner of the sofa, having a comfortable nook at home is an autumn–winter essential.⁠
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This season, enjoy the gentle flicker of candlelight as the evenings settle in, curled beneath the comforting weight of a woollen throw.⁠
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No matter how you style your space, a scented candle is the finishing touch that brings it all together. We’ve chosen the Charles Farris Scented Candle in 'Elizabeth' to complete this cosy corner. Its blend of orange blossom, jasmine, bergamot, and mulberries evokes the richness and fruitfulness of the season.⁠
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Shop the full look (and scent) by tapping the Autumn Reflections button in our bio 🍂
As night falls, it's a comfort coming home to an i As night falls, it's a comfort coming home to an inviting glow from the house. With us, you'll find the right outdoor lighting to make that welcome even warmer.⁠
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Handcrafted from antiqued brass with a hand-blown glass shade and industrial-style cage, our bestselling Wall Mounted Ship's Light is inspired by vintage deck lights once found on ocean liners.⁠
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Perfect for porches, gardens, and outbuildings, this timeless design is carefully crafted in our Suffolk workshops. Like all our lights, it's made with an eye for detail and quality that lasts. ⁠
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Explore more outdoor lighting options at jim-lawrence.co.uk.
Create a snug retreat for darker mornings and long Create a snug retreat for darker mornings and longer evenings with rich textures, gentle lighting, and thoughtful details.⁠

We lean to warmer russets within our accessories this season, reaching for Burnt Orange velvet for its depth of colour and richness, and contrasting it with Mole for a soothing soft grey embrace that brings balance.

Paired with the natural softness of wool and relaxed weave of linen, the setting creates a modern rustic look that feels both grounded and inspiring.

From scented beeswax candles, handblown glass vases, and the soothing tones of beeswax and matt black, each piece brings texture and character to the home, inviting you to slow down, settle in, and enjoy the wind-down to winter.

Tap the ‘Autumn reflections’ button via the link in our bio to shop three new seasonal looks 🍂
Our bestselling glass domed shades are now availab Our bestselling glass domed shades are now available with Matt Black fittings. ⁠
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Available in two sizes - the Chalford and Walcot - this ceiling light can be hung in a row above an island, or suspended solitarily as a statement piece. Both are supplied with our Fordham Ceiling Rose and a matching flex, and the Chalford with a discreet chain to support the weight of the larger shade.⁠
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Because we like to help you achieve your perfect look, whilst each design comes with a fixed flex length, these can be easily shortened on installation. Should you require a longer drop, our pendant length guide is available on the relevant product pages, offering clear instructions for customising the length to your needs.⁠
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Visit jim-lawrence.co.uk to shop each look.⁠
For many years now we have teamed up with @lovatmi For many years now we have teamed up with @lovatmill, based in the Scottish Border town of Hawick and known as the Home of Tweed; where the artisan craftsmen follow in the footsteps of generations of Tweed makers to create beautiful contemporary fabrics.⁠
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Taking inspiration from the rich colours of the surrounding countryside, Lovat Mill design and weave wool of the highest quality. Their fabrics incorporate between five and forty individual colours to produce a range of herringbones and checks that will add subtle reflections of the natural world to your home interior.⁠
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Our throws from Lovat Mill are cosy additions to your beds, sofas, and armchairs, bringing true heritage style to your scheme in a choice of beautiful colours. Discover more at jim-lawrence.co.uk
Such is the popularity of our Carrick wall light t Such is the popularity of our Carrick wall light that we have designed a pendant version to suspend alongside them. This striking three-armed ceiling pendant channels a mid-century look that that is simple enough to suit most spaces, with clean structured lines and a sculptural look. ⁠
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Tap this image via the link in our bio to browse every iteration of this bestselling design, from plug-ins, pendants, and pull-cords.⁠
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Kitchens hold the rhythm of daily life, and good l Kitchens hold the rhythm of daily life, and good lighting helps to shape how this space feels morning to night. Glass lighting diffuses light in this essential area, creating a bright and open feel which is ideal for busy, multifunctional spaces. Clear, frosted, or textured glass offers a timeless look that complements both classic and contemporary kitchen design while enhancing natural light.⁠
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If you love the look of the Orla pendant (as chosen here by @baile_na_leice) but want to explore more options, tap these images via the link in our bio to browse our full collection of handblown glass pendant lighting.
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